Learning to love

Recently I’ve had to face an important element of my faith journey that my religious upbringing and theological studies did not prepare me for.
I was faithfully taught about the attributes and essence of God. I was taught about salvation through Christ alone. I was taught about sin and holiness… and I was also taught how my beliefs made me different from others who did not share the same ones… However, I was never taught how to love.

Sadly, I witnessed many of my former spiritual leaders acting un-lovingly more often than showing grace. I struggle to find a reference point as to what love really should look like. Especially, since Jesus stated that all of the law is summed up in loving God and others.

Currently I’m in the process of re-defining how love will be displayed in my life. It’s always been easy to love people who treat me well and that I have things in common with. However, stepping outside of this circle is one of the biggest challenges that I’ve ever faced. However, that’s exactly what Jesus did when he stepped into earth as a child. I was once told that the Christian goal is maturity, and maturity looks like Jesus. I’m determined to follow His footsteps. I invite you to pray for me and join me in this challenge.

Unapologetically yours,

John Garay

Hey Friends,

Stay tuned, I have some more content coming soon. I’ve been super pressed for time running between my home and Mexico to work with the youth group that I lead. Prayers appreciated.

P.S. Hey friend! If you find this blog to be of value, please take the time to leave a comment or share it on your newsfeed. It is my desire that my story will bring hope, healing, and encouragement to those who need it. Blessings! 🙂

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John Eli has spent over 15 years mentoring and coaching individuals in life skills, career transitions, and through organizational change. He has worked in behavioral health, pastoral care, and higher-education. He has found that he is most satisfied in life when he is helping people recognize their potential and assisting them to reach their goals.

He currently lives in Chandler, Arizona with his wife, mini-schnauzer and an antique piano whom he calls, “Betty.”

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11 Comments

Amen. Right there with you! Learning to love the seemingly ‘unlovable’, when it doesn’t feel good, when it stretches me, when I don’t necessarily ‘feel’ like it, when it’s not based off performance or what someone is or isn’t doing has been a challenge for me. My greatest test in this area is now in my newlywed marriage. It has revealed insufficiencies within me in that area and, I too, strive to get it right and just love! Outside of marriage the same is required of me. Also, a challenge when you are wronged, hurt, misused, etc. A work in progress too. Thanks for sharing and I am all in for this challenge!

It is funny how that is what we were told to do. Love God and love people, Love God. Go into the world tell them. But, this love thing and understanding how much we are loved seems to be the last to take. I am with you brother. Keep pressing on John!

Yes, loving the unlovely is the real challenge. Being ok with an unwashed person hugging us. Reaching out to those who seem unworthy to us. Jesus challenges us every day and every day we have to struggle to be like him.